Derek Huerta

Derek Huerta is a Senior Manager in Satellite Payload Engineering at SpaceX, where they lead a team of engineers developing next-generation Starlink payloads. They previously held various roles at Space Systems/Loral, including Payload Engineering Manager and Department Manager, overseeing large teams and significant budget initiatives while ensuring the delivery of critical communication system payloads. Earlier in their career, at PolySat, Derek managed teams of engineering students and was instrumental in the design and testing of satellites. Derek holds both a Master's and Bachelor's degree in Space Systems Engineering and Electrical Engineering from California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo.